Methods and systems for alternative fuel container support

ABSTRACT

A support system is provided for a vehicle. The support system can include one or more bracket assemblies in which each includes a coupling member and a curved member in which the coupling member is affixed to a structure of the vehicle. A housing can be supported by the one or more bracket assemblies in which the housing encloses a container that stores a material such that the housing protects the container and the material. The support system provides movement between a length of the container so as to reduce deterioration of the support system.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation application of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/879,816 filed on Jan. 25, 2018 entitled “METHODSAND SYSTEMS FOR ALTERNATIVE FUEL CONTAINER SUPPORT.” U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 15/879,816 is a continuation application of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 15/601,269 filed on May 22, 2017 entitled“METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ALTERNATIVE FUEL CONTAINER SUPPORT.” U.S.patent application Ser. No. 15/601,269 is a non-provisional of andclaims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.62/339,864 filed on May 21, 2016 entitled “METHODS AND SYSTEMSCOMPRESSED NATURAL GAS (CNG) CONTAINER SUPPORT.” The entireties of eachof the aforementioned applications are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND Technical Field

Embodiments of the subject matter disclosed herein relate to a containersupport for a vehicle, wherein an engine of the vehicle utilizes analternative fuel as a fuel source, and in some examples a compressed gasas a fuel source. Some embodiments are directed to a support structurefor a container of a vehicle that utilizes an alternative fuel as a fuelsource, wherein the vehicle can utilize a combustible fuel engine, abattery powered engine, or a combination thereof.

Discussion of Art

It may be desirable to have an alternative fuel system and method thatdiffers from those systems and methods that are currently available.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

In an embodiment, a support system for a vehicle is provided thatincludes at least the following: one or more bracket assemblies that isconfigured to support a container within a housing, the bracket assemblyincludes a coupling member that couples to a chassis of a vehicle and acurved member that supports a portion of the housing; the containerhouses a compressed gas, the container has a first end and a second endopposite thereto; a threaded male portion on the first end that iscoupled to a female portion on a first neck mount, wherein the threadedmale portion mates with the female portion; the second end inserted intoa second neck mount to enable movement based on a pressure change or atemperature change; a first inner plate coupled to the first neck mountlocated at the first end; a second inner plate coupled to the secondneck mount located at the second end; the first inner plate and thesecond inner plate are coupled to an inside wall of the housing; a trussassembly coupled to a front side of the first inner plate; and thehousing coupled to the curved member of the bracket assembly and thehousing encases the container, the first neck mount, the second neckmount, the first inner plate, the second inner plate, and the trussassembly.

In an embodiment, a storage system for a vehicle is provided thatincludes at least the following: a housing having a first end and asecond end opposite the first end and a thickness, the housing having alength between the first end and the second end; a container having acylindrical shape is situated within the housing, the container houses amaterial, the container has a first end and a second end oppositethereto, the first end includes a neck and a valve 109 and the secondend includes a pressure release device, wherein the valve is a two-wayvalve configured to receive the material and deliver the material to avehicle via a tubing; a first neck mount configured to receive the neck,the first neck mount is coupled to a first inner plate positionedproximate to the first end of the housing; a second neck mountconfigured to receive the second end of the container, the second neckmount is coupled to a second inner plate positioned proximate to thesecond end of the housing; a truss assembly that is coupled to the firstinner plate on a side that is opposite the first neck mount; one or moreshield plates coupled to the ends of the housing to enclose the housingon the first end and the second end; and the housing is configured to becoupled to a frame of a vehicle such that the length of the housing isat least one of behind a cab of the vehicle or below a cab of thevehicle.

In an embodiment, a support system for a vehicle is provided thatincludes at least the following: a housing having a first end and asecond end opposite the first end and a thickness, the housing having alength between the first end and the second end; a container having acylindrical shape, the container houses a material, the container has afirst end and a second end opposite thereto, the first end includes aneck and a valve and the second end includes a pressure release device,wherein the valve is a two-way valve configured to receive the materialand deliver the material to a vehicle via a tubing; a first neck mountconfigured to receive the neck, the first neck mount is coupled to afirst inner plate positioned proximate to the first end of the housing;a second neck mount configured to receive the second end of thecontainer, the second neck mount is coupled to a second inner platepositioned proximate to the second end of the housing; a truss assemblythat is coupled to the first inner plate on a side that is opposite thefirst neck mount; one or more shield plates coupled to the ends of thehousing to enclose the housing on the first end and the second end; thehousing configured to provide protection and enclose the container, thefirst neck mount, the first inner plate, the second neck mount, thesecond inner plate, and the truss assembly; and one or more bracketassemblies, wherein each bracket assembly includes a coupling memberthat couples to a chassis of a vehicle and a curved member that iscoupled or supports an exterior of the housing.

These and other objects of this invention will be evident when viewed inlight of the drawings, detailed description and appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Reference is made to the accompanying drawings in which particularembodiments and further benefits of the provided subject matter areillustrated as described in more detail in the description below.

FIG. 1 is view of a support system coupled or supporting a housing.

FIG. 2 is an illustration of a support system with the housing removed.

FIG. 3 is an illustration of a support system without a housing or acontainer.

FIG. 4 is an illustration of one or more elements a support system.

FIG. 5 is an illustration of one or more elements a support system.

FIG. 6 is a view of a container.

FIG. 7 is an exploded view of a housing, first inner plate, second innerplate, truss assembly, first shield plate, second shield plate, and endcaps.

FIG. 8 is an exploded view of a housing, first inner plate, second innerplate, truss assembly integrated into the first inner plate, firstshield plate, and second shield plate.

FIG. 9 is an illustration of a first inner plate.

FIG. 10 is an illustration of a first inner plate.

FIG. 11 is an illustration of a first inner plate.

FIG. 12 is an illustration of a reinforcement plate.

FIG. 13 is an illustration of a reinforcement plate.

FIG. 14 is an illustration of a reinforcement plate.

FIG. 15 is an illustration of a second inner plate.

FIG. 16 is an illustration of a second inner plate.

FIG. 17 is an illustration of a first inner plate, a neck mount, a trussassembly, and a first shield plate.

FIG. 18 is an illustration of a truss assembly with a neck mount.

FIG. 19 is an illustration of a truss assembly.

FIG. 20 is an illustration of a portion of the truss assembly.

FIG. 21 is an illustration of a portion of the truss assembly.

FIG. 22 is an illustration of a portion of the truss assembly.

FIG. 23 is an illustration of a portion of the truss assembly.

FIG. 24 is an illustration of a portion of the truss assembly.

FIG. 25 is an illustration of perspective view of a bracket assembly andstrap.

FIG. 26 is an illustration of side view of a bracket assembly and strap.

FIG. 27 is an illustration of rear view of a bracket assembly and strap.

FIG. 28 is an illustration of front view of a bracket assembly andstrap.

FIG. 29 is an illustration of top view of a bracket assembly and strap.

FIG. 30 is an illustration of a bracket assembly.

FIG. 31 is an illustration of a bracket assembly.

FIG. 32 is an illustration of a bracket assembly.

FIG. 33 is an illustration of a bracket assembly.

FIG. 34 is an illustration of a bracket assembly.

FIG. 35 is an illustration of a bracket assembly.

FIG. 36 is an illustration of a bracket assembly.

FIG. 37 is an illustration of a support system coupled to a cabin of avehicle.

FIG. 38 is an illustration of a support system coupled to a cabin of avehicle.

FIG. 39 is an illustration of a support system coupled to a chassis orframe of a vehicle.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the provided subject matter relate to methods and systemsfor a support system for a container housing a material used as a fuelsource for a vehicle. A support structure can include a container thatis coupled to a first neck mount on a first end and inserted into asecond neck mount on a second end opposite the first end. The first neckmount can be coupled to a first inner plate, the first inner plate iscoupled to a truss assembly. The second neck mount, opposite the firstmount, can be coupled to a second inner plate. A housing can encase andhouse the container, the first neck mount, the second neck mount, thefirst inner plate, the second inner plate, and the truss assembly. Abracket assembly can include a coupling member and a curved member. Thecoupling member can be configured to be coupled to a chassis orstructure on a vehicle. The curved member can be coupled to a portion ofthe coupling member and be configured to support and/or couple to thehousing. Moreover, one or more strap members can attach to a portion ofthe coupling member and a portion of the curved member.

The support system can support or brace the container, wherein thecontainer can house or store a material for a fuel source for a vehicle.The material can be used as a fuel source for a combustible fuel engine,an alternative fuel, or a fuel to power a device that powers or chargesa battery used for the vehicle. In an embodiment, the material housedcan be a compressed gas. In another embodiment, the material housed bythe container can be compressed natural gas (CNG). The support systemcan support or brace one or more containers that house a portion ofmaterial and such containers can be vertically oriented, horizontallyoriented, or a position in-between horizontal and vertical (incomparison to the ground). The support system can further includeelectrical and/or mechanical connective means in order to provideelectrical and/or mechanical connectivity between the support system andthe vehicle.

With reference to the drawings, like reference numerals designateidentical or corresponding parts throughout the several views. However,the inclusion of like elements in different views does not mean a givenembodiment necessarily includes such elements or that all embodiments ofthe invention include such elements.

The term “component” as used herein can be defined as a portion ofhardware, a portion of software, or a combination thereof. A portion ofhardware can include at least a processor and a portion of memory,wherein the memory includes an instruction to execute. The term“vehicle” as used herein may be a mobile machine or a moveabletransportation asset that transports at least one of a person, people,or a cargo. For instance, a vehicle can be, but is not limited to being,semi, a semi truck, a semi-trailer truck, a tractor-trailer, a transfertruck, an 18-wheeler, a truck, a class 8 vehicle, an automobile, farmequipment, industrial equipment, construction equipment, van, SportUtility Vehicle (SUV), a truck that carriers a load and/or freight, acement truck, a delivery truck, a tractor, a flat-bed truck, and thelike. Moreover, a vehicle can be powered by combustible fuel (e.g.,unleaded fuel, diesel fuel, compressed natural gas, compressed hydrogen,compressed gas, alternative fuel, among others) or a battery or electricmotor. The term “container” as used herein can be defined as anycylinder, tank, housing, canister, and the like of any suitable materialthat can house or contain at least one of alternative fuels, renewablefuel sources, nonrenewable fuel sources, liquid fuel sources, or gasfuel sources.

FIGS. 1-4 illustrate a support system 100 or portions thereof for acontainer 102 that houses a material. FIG. 1 illustrates the supportsystem 100 that is configured to affix to a portion of a vehicle. FIG. 2illustrates the support system 100 without the housing 104 illustratedbut with the container 102. FIG. 3 illustrates the support system 100without the housing 104 and without the container 102. FIG. 4illustrates the support system 100 without the housing, without thecontainer 102, without the first shield plate 112 and without the secondshield plate 114.

The support system 100 can support, brace, secure, and/or hold one ormore containers within the housing, wherein the support system 100includes elements for support and protection of the container 102. Inparticular, the support system 100 includes a housing 104 that encasesthe container 102 (collectively referred to as a storage system). By wayof example and not limitation, the housing 104 can be a shape whichmatches or is similar to a shape of the container 102. In a particularembodiment, the container 102 can be a cylindrical shape and theprotective member 104 can be a cylindrical shape having a size that iscapable of enclosing the container 102 within the housing 104.

The support system 100 can be coupled to at least one of a frame of avehicle, a chassis of a vehicle, a structure of a vehicle, among others.Moreover, the support system 100 can be coupled or affixed at a locationthat is below a cabin of the vehicle, wherein the cabin is a location inwhich a passenger or driver are seated. By way of example and notlimitation, the vehicle can incorporate one or more support systems 100such that a first support system is positioned on a driver side and asecond support system is positioned on a passenger side. In anotherembodiment, the vehicle can have one or more support systems coupled atlocations such as, but not limited to, above a frame or chassis of thevehicle, behind a cabin of a vehicle and above a fame, below a frame orchassis of the vehicle and below a cabin of a vehicle, among others. Itis to be appreciated that if more than one support system is utilized ona vehicle, the location for each support system can be symmetrical inposition, or not symmetrical. For instance, a vehicle can utilize afirst support system in a vertical position behind the cab and above thechassis and a second support system in a horizontal position below thecab and level with or below the chassis. Various configurations of thesupport system 100 attached to a vehicle 200 or a cabin 202 areillustrated in FIGS. 37-39.

For a support system 100 that includes a container that is orientedhorizontal compared to the ground level, the container can be underneatha portion of a cabin of the vehicle on a side (e.g., passenger side,driver side, or a position in between the passenger side and driverside) of the vehicle and mounted to a frame of the vehicle, a chassis ofthe vehicle, a structure affixed to a vehicle, or a structure affixed toa chassis or frame of the vehicle. In another embodiment, the supportsystem 100 can include a container that is oriented horizontal comparedto the ground level and parallel compared to an axle of the vehicle(e.g., a position that has the container first end on the driver sideand the second side on the passenger side), wherein the support system100 is coupled to a back of a cab.

For a support system that includes a container that is oriented verticalcompared to the ground level, the container can be positioned behind acabin of the vehicle and mounted to a frame of the vehicle, a chassis ofthe vehicle, a structure affixed to the vehicle, a portion of a cabin ofthe vehicle, or a structure affixed to a chassis or frame of thevehicle.

The one or more containers can reside in a plane that is in a linearorientation and located in a substantially similar plane as at least oneof an axle of the vehicle, a chassis of the vehicle, a driveshaft of thevehicle, or the frame of the vehicle. Further, the one or morecontainers may be parallel to a ground to which the vehicle travels. Inan embodiment, the support system 100 can be adapted to be used with avehicle that is powered by a combustible fuel engine, an alternativefuel, a battery, or a combination thereof. The subject innovationdescribes a support system 100 that can be attached to at least one of aportion of a vehicle underneath a portion of a cabin, a portion of astructure of the vehicle, along a side of the vehicle, or a portion of acabin or frame at a position behind a cabin of the vehicle, amongothers.

In an embodiment, the support system 100 can be affixed to a cab of avehicle in which one or more containers are oriented in a verticalposition or substantially vertical in comparison to the ground level(e.g., a length of the container being perpendicular or substantiallyperpendicular to a chassis or frame of the vehicle).

The support system 100 can be positioned on a vehicle on a location thatis where a diesel fuel tank would exist such as a saddlebagconfiguration. The system 100 can be positioned between the steer axleand the drive axle of a vehicle and at a location below or at thechassis 118 of the vehicle. For instance, the system 100 can be used toexchange or replace a diesel fuel tank with the system 100. Thereplacement or exchange can allow removal of the diesel tank(s) andattaching the bracket assemblies and other elements.

The container 102 can be cylindrical in shape but it is to beappreciated that the container 102 can be a shape that holds a volume ofa material and such shape can be selected with sound engineeringjudgment without departing from the scope of the subject innovation. Thecontainer 102 is described in more detail in FIG. 6 and below.

The support system 100 can include a bracket assembly 121 that iscoupled to at least one of a chassis 118 of a vehicle, a frame of avehicle, or a structure on a vehicle. It is to be appreciated that thesupport system 100 can include one or more bracket assemblies 121 and anumber of bracket assemblies 121 can be selected with sound engineeringjudgment without departing from the scope of the subject innovation. Ina particular embodiment, a vehicle can include a first support system100 that can include three (3) bracket assemblies 121 located on adriver side and a second support system 100 that can include three (3)bracket assemblies 121. In another embodiment, the vehicle can includeone or more support systems 100, wherein the support system 100 caninclude two (2) bracket assemblies.

The housing 104 is an exterior barrier that the container 102 is placedwithin to provide protection. The housing 104 can be a shape and sizethat is configured to enclose the container 102. In an embodiment, thehousing 104 can be a first shape defining a first volume and thecontainer 102 can be a second shape defining a second volume, whereinthe first shape is similar to the second shape and the first volume isgreater than the second volume to allow the container 102 to fit insidethe housing 104. The housing 104 can include a first end 101 and asecond end 103 opposite the first end 101 and a length between the firstend 101 and the second end 103. The housing 104 can further include athickness. A first plate shield 112 can be coupled to the first end 101to enclose the first end 101 and a second plate shield 114 can becoupled to the second end 103 to enclose the second end 103. It is to beappreciated that the first plate shield 112 or the second plate shield114 can be releaseably coupled or permanently coupled to the first end101 or the second end 103 respectively. It is to be appreciated that thecontainer 102 can be oriented in various manners such as the first end101 of the container 102 can be situated toward an engine of the vehicleand the second end 103 can be situated toward a rear of the cabin or thefirst end of the container 102 can be situated toward rear of the cabinand the second end 103 can be situated toward an engine of the vehicle.

The bracket assembly 121 can couple to a structure on a vehicle or aportion of the vehicle as well as provide support to the housing 104 andthe container 102 positioned within. In particular, the bracket assembly121 can support or couple to an exterior of the housing 104. The bracketassembly 121 can include a coupling member 122 and a curved member 124in which the coupling member 122 is affixed to a portion of the chassis118 and the curved member 124 can be used to support or hold the housing104 that protects and encases the container 102. As previouslydiscussed, it is to be appreciated that the support system 100 caninclude one or more bracket assemblies 121 and each bracket assembly 121can include at least one of the coupling member 122, the curved member124, or a strap 116. Various configurations of the bracket assembly 121can be selected with sound engineering judgment and such configurationsare within the scope of this subject innovation. Configurations of thebracket assembly 121 are illustrated in FIGS. 32-36 (discussed in moredetail below). It is to be appreciated that the system 100 can usestraps 116 or be strapless. Additionally, the bracket assembly 121 isillustrated in FIGS. 25-29.

In an embodiment, the support system 100 can include two or more bracketassemblies 121 to couple to or support the housing 104. In anembodiment, the bracket assembly 121 can be in a “J” shape in which thecurved member 124 supports the housing 104. In another embodiment, thebracket assembly can be in an upside-down “J” shape in which the curvedmember 124 is affixed or coupled to the housing 104. The upside down “J”configuration can provide more ground clearance. A strap 116 can be usedfor each bracket assembly 121 in which the strap 116 provides support tosecure the housing 104. For example, the strap 116 can include a firstend and a second end, wherein the first end couples to the couplingmember 122 and the second end couples to at least one of the couplingmember 122 or the curved member 124. In an embodiment, a first strap 116can be positioned on an exterior of the housing 104 at a position thatis in between the first inner plate 106 and the first shield plate 112.In the embodiment, a second strap 116′ can be positioned on an exteriorof the housing 104 at a position that is in between the second innerplate 108 and the second shield plate 114.

In an embodiment, a first bracket assembly 121, a second bracketassembly 121″, and a third bracket assembly 121′ can be utilized inwhich the first bracket assembly 121 is on the first end 101 and thethird bracket assembly 121′ is on the second end 103, and the secondbracket assembly 121″ is in between the first bracket assembly 121 andthe third bracket assembly 121′. Moreover, each bracket assembly caninclude a strap 116. In particular, a strap 116 on the first bracketassembly can be positioned in between a first inner plate 106 and thefirst shield plate 112. Moreover, a strap 116′ on the third bracketassembly 121′ can be positioned in between a second inner plate 108 andthe second shield plate 114. The strap 116″ can be positioned around acircumference of the housing 104.

Turning to FIG. 6, the container 102 is illustrated. The container 102can include a first end 602, a second end opposite thereto 604, a neck606 located on the first end 602 and a pressure release device (PRD) onthe second end 604. The neck 606 can be configured to receive a valve109 (See FIG. 4) or fitting that enables filling or dispensing of aportion of material. For instance, the valve can be a two-way valve thatallows material to enter the container 102 and also allow the materialto exit the container 102. The container 102 can be cylindrical in shapewith a length, a diameter, and a thickness. Yet, it is to be appreciatedthat the container 102 shape, materials, composition, or size can bechosen with sound engineering judgment without departing from theintended scope of coverage of the embodiments of the subject invention.The container 102 can include one or more liners of a material. Forinstance, the container 102 can include a liner made of a firstmaterial. In certain embodiments, the first material is at least one ofa plastic, a metal, a steel, a thermoplastic, among others. In certainembodiments, the container 102 can include a wrapping of a secondmaterial. In certain embodiments, the second material is at least one ofa carbon fiber, a composite material, a Teflon, or a disparate materialfrom the first material. In certain embodiments, the container 102 ismade of at least one of a metal, a plastic, a polymer, or a compositematerial.

In an embodiment, the container 102 can include a closed end on thesecond end 604 and an open end opposite thereto (e.g., on the first end602), wherein the open end is integrated with at least one of a boss, aneck, a valve, an opening configured to couple to a valve, among others.It is to be appreciated that the open end on the container 102 can beconfigured to receive material that is stored in the container 102and/or configured to dispense material that is stored in the container102, wherein the dispensing/receiving is with a component such as avalve, port, and the like. In another embodiment, the container 102 caninclude a valve on the first end 602 and a PRD on the second end 604,wherein the PRD can be configured to release pressure from the container102 based on a parameter such as a pressure level, a safety event, acomputer instruction to release the material in the container 102, amongothers.

It is to be appreciated that the container 102 can include one or morevalves. For instance, the container 102 can include a first valve on thefirst end 602 and the PRD on the second end 604. In another instance,the container 102 can include a first valve on the first end 602 and anadditional valve on the second end 604 opposite thereto. Moreover, it isto be appreciated that the container 102 can include one or morechambers within to house one or more materials. For example, a cylindercan be segmented to have a first chamber that houses a first materialfilled/dispensed with a first valve on the first end and a secondchamber that houses a second material filled/dispensed with a secondvalve on a second end opposite to the first end.

It is to be appreciated that the container 102 can house a portion of amaterial, wherein the material can be a solid, a gas, a liquid, aplasma, among others. By way of example and not limitation, the materialcan be an alternative fuel. In still another example that is notlimiting on the subject innovation, the material can be a material at ahigh pressure in comparison to an atmospheric pressure.

In still another example, one or more containers 102 can be used tostore material for use with a fuel system for a vehicle. For example, inaddition to compressed natural gas, the container 102 can be utilizedwith a fuel system that utilizes or consumes material such as renewablefuel sources, nonrenewable fuel sources, liquid fuel sources, or gasfuel sources for a vehicle, wherein the container 102 can store suchrenewable fuel sources, nonrenewable fuel sources, liquid fuel sources,or gas fuel sources. Renewable fuel sources can include biofuels such asvegetable oil, ethanol, methanol, butanol, other bioalcohols, biomass,or biodiesel, among others. Renewable fuel sources can also includehydrogen and/or hydrogen fuel cells, refuse-derived fuel, chemicallystored fuel, non-fossil methane, non-fossil natural gas, Ammonia, Formicacid, liquid Nitrogen, compressed air, or propane derived from renewablemethods, among others. Nonrenewable fuel source can include gasoline,propane, or diesel, among others. Additional liquid or gas fuel sourcescan include any mixture or blend of energy sources, for example, E10,E15, E30, or E85 fuel, or HCNG (blend of compressed natural gas withHydrogen). It is be appreciated that the container 102 can house amaterial chosen with sound engineering judgment without departing fromthe intended scope of coverage of the embodiments of the subjectinvention and such material can be used for a fuel system of a vehicle,a machine, a device, or any combination thereof.

Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the container 102 can be secured within thehousing 104 with a coupling of the ends of the container 102 to one ormore mounting blocks. The container 102 can include a threaded maleportion on the first end 602 of a neck 606 of the container 102 and thecontainer 102 is coupled to a corresponding female portion on a firstneck mount 126 (see also FIG. 17). The first neck mount 126 can includethe female portion such as a collar that receives the neck 606 of thecontainer 102. The second end 604 of the container 102 can be insertedinto a second neck mount 128. In an embodiment, the coupling of thefirst end 602 of the container 102 to the first neck mount 126 canrestrict movement whereas the second neck mount 128 can be configured toenable movement in a longitudinal direction from the first end 602 tothe second end 604 based on a pressure change or a temperature change ofthe material in the container 102. In particular, the change in pressureor temperature of the material can result in an expansion or contractionof the container 102 and the support system 100 can accommodate such toprevent deterioration of the support system or components thereof.

The support system 100 allows a twisting motion of the container 102from change in pressure or temperature or from motion/movement of thevehicle to which the bracket assemblies are attached. The support system100 also provides protection in a roll situation for the vehicle inwhich the container 102 is bolted to a portion of the support system 100with a bolting to the neck 606, one or more straps 116 (e.g., 6 inchstraps), and/or a channel around a portion of the housing 104 for eachstraps with bolting accessible at the end of the straps. For instance,the bolting on the straps can be accessible on a bottom side of thevehicle when the support system 100 is oriented in a horizontal position(compared to ground).

The first neck mount 126 can be coupled to a first inner plate 106 andthe second neck mount 128 can be coupled to a second inner plate 108.The first inner plate 106 is shown in more detail in FIGS. 9-11 and thesecond inner plate 108 is shown in more detail in FIGS. 15-16. The firstinner plate 106 can include one or more apertures and/or a centeraperture for the neck 606 of the container 102 as well as the first neckmount 126 and at least one of a valve, pressure release device, atubing, a connector, etc. The second inner plate 108 can further includeapertures and/or a center aperture for the second end 604 of thecontainer as well as the second neck mount 126 and at least one of avalve, pressure release device, a tubing, a connector, etc. The materialstored or housed in the container 102 can be delivered to the vehicle oran engine of the vehicle via one or more valves, connectors, tubing,etc. Moreover, the container 102 can be filled with the material via avalve, tubing, connectors, etc.

The first inner plate 106 can have a thickness and include a front side138, a backside, and a sidewall 130 that is in contact with an insidewall of the housing 104. Further, the second inner plate 108 can have athickness and include a front side, a backside, and a sidewall 132,wherein the sidewall 132 is in contact with an inside wall of thehousing 104. It is to be appreciated that the sidewall 130 and thesidewall 132 can be coupled to the inside wall of the housing 104 withat least one of a welding, adhesive, screw, nut/bolt, threading, or acombination thereof. The back side of the first inner plate 106 can bein contact with and coupled to the first neck mount 126. The back sideof the second inner plate 106 can be in contact with and coupled to thesecond neck mount 128.

FIGS. 7 and 8 are exploded views of embodiments of the subjectinnovation. In particular, FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate the housing 104, thefirst inner plate 106, the second inner plate 108, a truss assembly 110,the first shield plate 112, the second shield plate 114, a first end cap115, and a second end cap 117. It is noted that FIGS. 7 and 8 do notillustrate the container 102 that is encased and protected by thehousing 104.

The truss assembly 110 can be coupled to the front side 138 of the firstinner plate 106, wherein the front side 138 is opposite the back side ofthe first inner plate 106 and is coupled to the first neck mount 126. Inanother embodiment, the support system 100 can include a first trussassembly 110 coupled to the first inner plate 106 and a second trussassembly coupled to a second truss assembly coupled to the second innerplate 108.

In an embodiment, the truss assembly 110 can be included on the firstinner plate 106, the second inner plate 108, or a combination thereof.In another embodiment, the first inner plate 106 or the second innerplate 108 can be excluded within the support system 100 (and inparticular within the housing 104) but can include the truss assembly110 on one or more ends of the housing 104.

It is to be appreciated that the truss assembly 110 can be releaseablycoupled to the first inner plate 126 as illustrated in FIG. 7. Turningto FIGS. 18-24, the truss assembly 110 is illustrated. For instance, thetruss assembly 110 can include a first portion 111 and a second portion113. In an embodiment, the truss assembly 110 can include a firstportion 111 and a second portion 113 as separate components but can alsobe included as a single component without departing from the scope ofthe subject innovation. The first portion 111 can include a mount memberwith two (2) extending arms, wherein the mount member can be coupled toat least one of the first inner plate 106, the first neck mount 126, orthe first shield plate 112. The two extending arms of the first portion111 can be coupled to at least one of the first inner plate 106, thefirst neck mount 126, or the first shield plate 112. Similarly, thesecond portion 113 can include a mount member with two (2) extendingarms, wherein the mount member can be coupled to at least one of thefirst inner plate 106, the first neck mount 126, or the first shieldplate 112. The two extending arms of the second portion 113 can becoupled to at least one of the first inner plate 106, the first neckmount 126, or the first shield plate 112. It is to be appreciated thatthe truss assembly 110 can include apertures for structural integrity aswell as to reduce weight thereof.

In an embodiment in which a truss assembly can be included on the secondend 604 of the container 102 and the second end 103 of the housing andsuch coupling to can be similar to the truss assembly 110 discussedabove without departing from the scope of the subject innovation.

Further, it is to be appreciated that the truss assembly 110 can becoupled directly to the first inner plate 106 with one or more welds asillustrated in FIG. 8. For instance, the truss assembly 110 can beintegrated into the first inner plate 106. The truss assembly 110coupled to the first inner plate 106 is illustrated in more detail inFIGS. 9-11. The truss assembly 110 can include a first gusset 140 and asecond gusset 142. It is to be appreciated that the truss assembly 110can include one or more gussets, wherein each gusset is a separatecomponent or aggregated to be a single component. FIG. 11 illustratesangles associated with the first gusset 140 and the second gusset 142.The first gusset can be a “W” shape or can be selected with a shape withsound engineering without departing from scope of the subjectinnovation. The second gusset can be a “W” shape with two additionalfeatures within the outer arms of the existing “W” shape.

Continuing with the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8, a reinforcementplate 136 is coupled on the front side of the first inner plate 106,wherein the reinforcement plate 136 is illustrated in FIGS. 12-14. Thereinforcement plate 136 can include one or more apertures for couplingas well as an aperture for at least one of the neck 606, a valve, atubing, a connector, among others.

The support system 100 can further include a pressure release device(PRD). A PRD is a device adapted to sense one or more physicalparameters, such as, without limitation, pressure, temperature, orstress, within or around a container 102 and to vent the contents of thecontainer 102 to environment if the one or more physical parameters meeta predetermined standard. In one embodiment a PRD may be adapted tosense pressure within a container 102 and to vent the contents of thecontainer 102 to environment if the pressure is more than somepredetermined pressure. In some non-limiting embodiments, thepredetermined pressure may be 50% of the maximum pressure a container102 may contain without bursting or otherwise failing.

The support system 100 is a non-limiting embodiment that includes one ormore containers 102 that are configured to house a material, eachcontainer 102 may be cylindrical in shape with a length, a diameter, andthe first end 602 opposite a second end 604 in which the one of the endscan include at least one of a valve or a PRD.

It should be understood that in other acceptable embodiments theorientation of the one or more containers 102 need not be horizontal;the containers 102 may be vertical or in some other orientation orposition in between a horizontal position and a vertical position (e.g.,an angle between 0 and 90 degrees), such as, without limitation,slanted.

As discussed, the container can be neck mounted, that is mounted at oneor more necks of the container 102. It is to be appreciated that thecontainer 102 can include a neck on at least one end of the container102. A neck mount provides for substantially stress free containerexpansion and/or contraction. A neck mount may comprise a mounting blockhaving an internal geometry adapted to engage with the neck of acontainer 102 and an external geometry adapted to engage with a blockreceiver. In particular, a face of the first neck mount can be coupledto the first inner plate and a face of the second neck mount can becoupled to the second inner plate.

It should be understood that the internal geometry of the mounting blockcan be adapted to accept a wide variety of shapes of a neck including,but not limited to, cylindrical, cuboid, prismatic, polyhedral, orotherwise. It should be understood that the external geometry of themounting block and the block receiver can be any of a wide variety ofshapes including, but not limited to, cylindrical, prismatic, orotherwise. It should be understood that the fit between the neck ofcontainer 102 and the internal geometry of mounting block may be a tightfit or press fit or other fit adapted to prevent slippage between theneck and the internal geometry, or may be a loose or clearance or otherfit adapted to permit slippage between the neck and the internalgeometry. It is further to be appreciated that a neck mount can be usedon each end of the container 102 for each container 102 used in supportsystem 100.

Turning now to FIGS. 30-36, the bracket assembly 121 is illustrated withvarious arrangements of the coupling member 122, one or more curvedmembers 124, and/or one or more straps are depicted in accordance withone or more embodiments. For instance, in FIG. 32, the bracket assembly121 includes a coupling member 122 attached to a strap 116 configured toloop around and secure a tank. According to another aspect, as depictedin FIG. 33, the bracket assembly 121 can include a coupling member 122attached to a strap 116 which carries a curved member 124. The curvedmember 124 can provide a rigid support for a tank and operates with thestrap 116 to secure the tank. In one example, the curved member 124attaches to the coupling member 122 via a single strap 116 that loopsthrough the curved member 124. In another example, the coupling member122 couples to the curved member 124 via two straps 116 respectivelyattached to each end of the curved member 124.

In yet another example, as shown in FIG. 34, the coupling member 122couples to one or more curved members 124 to form a loop for securing atank. The one or more curved members 124 can attach directly to thecoupling member 122 or, alternatively, can attach to the coupling member122 via one or more straps 116 or portions thereof. Further, it is to beappreciated, for example, that one end of the loop can include thecurved member 124 directly attached to the coupling member 122, whilethe other end of the loop attaches the curved member 124 to the couplingmember 122 via a strap 116 or portion thereof. According to anotheraspect depicted in in FIG. 35, the curved member 124 mounts to thecoupling member 122 at a point of an arc of the curved member 124located between the ends of the curved member 124. The ends of thecurved member 124 can couple to a strap 116 configured to loop aroundand secure a tank. In yet another example, the bracket assembly 121illustrated in FIG. 36 includes a coupling member 122 having anelongated extension member 123. The curved member 124 attaches to thecoupling member 122, at one end for example, and further attaches to astrap 116 at another end. The strap 116, in turn, couples to thecoupling member 122 thereby forming a loop for securing a tank. Theextension member 123 can extend from the coupling member 122 in adirection below or above the coupling member 122, and substantiallytangential to the loop, to provide an extended mounting surface.

As seen in FIGS. 37-39, the support system 100 can mount to a structureon a vehicle 200 or a portion of the vehicle. In an embodiment, thesupport system 100 can be coupled to the chassis or frame 118 of thevehicle 200. For example, as shown in FIGS. 37 and 38, the supportsystem 100 can be mounted to a portion of a cabin 202 of the vehicle ina horizontal orientation compared to a ground level (FIG. 37). Inanother example, the support system 100 can be mounted to a portion of acabin 202 of the vehicle in a vertical orientation compared to a groundlevel (FIG. 38). It is to be appreciated the vehicle 200 can include oneor more support systems 100 in various configurations (e.g., firstsupport system in a horizontal orientation and a second support systemin a vertical orientation, or a support system in a position that is inbetween horizontal and vertical). In another example, illustrated inFIG. 39, the support system 100 can be mounted to the chassis or frame118 so that the container 102 within the housing 104 can be supportedbeside or beneath the frame 118.

At least one of the straps 116 or the housing 104 can be configured toreceive an entry step to allow a user to enter/exit a door of thevehicle. In particular, a step bracket or a step can be coupled to aportion of one or more of the straps 116. In another example, a portionof a step bracket or a step can be coupled to a portion of the housing104. At least one of the entry step, the entry step bracket, or thehousing 104 can be designed to be affixed with aerodynamic fairingpackages or aerodynamic features to aid in aerodynamics.

In certain embodiments, the support system 100 includes an electricalconnector component that couples to at least one of an electricalcomponent of the vehicle. For example, and without limitation, inconventional vehicles, there is typically an electrical systemcomprising one or more of an alternator or other electrical generatorand a battery or other energy storage device adapted to supplyelectrical energy. Known methods and apparatuses for operationallyengaging the electrical system of a vehicle may be adapted for use withsystem 100 in order to provide an electrical connector component thatmay be used to readily couple with the electrical system of vehicle. Anelectrical connector component coupled with the electrical system ofvehicle may be used to supply the support system 100 with electricalenergy.

In certain embodiments, the support system 100 includes a fuel connectorcomponent adapted to fluidly communicate with at least one of a hose ofthe vehicle or a fuel line of the vehicle, wherein the fuel connectorcomponent is adapted to output of a portion of the material from the oneor more containers 102 to a portion of an engine of the vehicle.Moreover, supply lines or conduit can be used to deliver a materialstored in the container to an engine or area of the engine in thevehicle.

The system 100 can utilize one or more manifolds, and in particular, afirst manifold on a driver side of the vehicle and a second manifold ona passenger side of the vehicle. In such embodiments, first manifold maycomprise a fast-fill port adapted to receives a portion of the materialcontained within one or more containers 102 at a first rate of flow; afuel transfer port configured for fluid communication of a portion ofthe material between a container affixed to a second vehicle and the oneor more containers 102 of the first vehicle and also configured forfluid communication of a portion of the material between the one or morecontainers 102 of vehicle and an external storage container (notintegral to the vehicle) such as, without limitation, a storagecontainer at a garage, depot, or other site; and a transfer valve thatis configured to control flow for the fuel transfer port. The manifoldcan include a shut-off valve, an internal check valve, an inlet fitting,a fuel storage fitting, a coalescing filter, and a pressure gage. Incertain embodiments, a first container is in selectable fluidcommunication with a second container. This latter selectable fluidcommunication may adapted for control by a valve.

Generally, a container 102 may be any kind of container chosen with goodengineering judgment and may, without limitation, consist of or comprisea cylinder, a tank, a housing, or a canister. The vehicle may be anykind of vehicle chosen with good engineering judgment and may, withoutlimitation, be selected from the group consisting of a semi, a semitruck, a semi-trailer truck, a tractor-trailer, a transfer truck, an18-wheeler, a truck, a class 8 vehicle, an automobile, farm equipment,industrial equipment, construction equipment, van, Sport Utility Vehicle(SUV), a truck that carriers a load and/or freight, and the like.

It is to be appreciated that the support system 100 can include one ormore containers 102. For instance, a vehicle can include a firstcontainer on a driver side and a second container on the passenger side,wherein the first container and the second container are horizontal incomparison to the ground and at a level at or below the chassis of thevehicle. In a particular embodiment, a weight element can be used as acounterweight or a counterbalance in the event that a configuration ofcontainers is used that requires balancing—for instance when a firstcontainer is used on one side but a second container is not on theopposite side. In such instance, a side can be configured to house aweight element that counterbalances a portion of weight associated withthe container on the opposite side.

The support system 100 can include tubing that delivers the materialfrom the container 102 to a manifold, an engine, or a portion of anengine of the vehicle, wherein the tubing can utilize one or morefilters, connectors, valves, regulators, and the like.

The support system 100 can utilize a shock mount, wherein the shockmount can be, but is not limited to being, a elastomeric damper, aspring-damper, and the like. The shock mount can include a damper withan aperture in which a bolt can be inserted therein, wherein the boltcan attach a bracket assembly to the chassis of the vehicle. The shockmount can further include a washer or plate on an end with a nut thatfacilitates attachment to the chassis. In a horizontal orientation, theshock mount can include a mounting bracket which attaches bracketassembly to the chassis of the vehicle and also to the shock mount. Theshock mount include the damper that mitigates impact or shock since itis between the bracket assembly.

In an embodiment, a support system is provided. In an embodiment, thehousing further comprises a first shield plate that is coupled to thetruss assembly. In an embodiment, the housing further comprises a secondshield plate that is coupled to the second inner plate. In anembodiment, the curved member of the bracket assembly is positionedabove the coupling member. In an embodiment, the curved member of thebracket assembly is positioned below the coupling member. In anembodiment, a strap is provided that secures the housing to the bracketassembly. In an embodiment, the strap includes a thickness, a first endand a second end opposite the first, wherein the strap is positionedaround a circumference of the housing. In an embodiment, the first endis coupled to the coupling member and the second end is coupled to thecurved member. In an embodiment, a valve is provided that allows thecompressed gas to be filled into the container and dispensed from thecontainer, the valve is located on the first end of the container. In anembodiment, a pressure release device is provided and is located on thesecond end of the container that is configured to release pressure fromthe container based on a parameter. In an embodiment, the container iscylindrical in shape and the housing is cylindrical in shape

In an embodiment, a storage system is provided. In an embodiment, thematerial is a compressed natural gas. In an embodiment, the material isa compressed hydrogen. In an embodiment, a bracket assembly is providedthat couples to the frame of the vehicle and supports a portion of thehousing. In an embodiment, a strap is provided and includes a first endand a second end opposite thereto, wherein the first end is coupled to afirst portion of the bracket assembly and the second portion is coupledto a second portion of the bracket assembly such that the strap ispositioned around a circumference of the housing perpendicular to thelength of the housing. In an embodiment, the bracket assembly includes acoupling member that couples to the frame and a curved member thatsupport the portion of the housing, wherein the bracket assembly isshaped in a “J” shape.

In an embodiment, a support system is provided. In an embodiment, thefollowing is provided: a first bracket assembly positioned proximate tothe first end of the housing; a second bracket assembly positionedproximate to the second end of the housing; and a third bracket assemblypositioned in-between the first bracket assembly and the second bracketassembly. In an embodiment, each respective bracket assembly ispositioned between a steer axle and a drive axle of the vehicle

In the specification and claims, reference will be made to a number ofterms that have the following meanings. The singular forms “a”, “an” and“the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictatesotherwise. Approximating language, as used herein throughout thespecification and claims, may be applied to modify a quantitativerepresentation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a changein the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a valuemodified by a term such as “about” is not to be limited to the precisevalue specified. In some instances, the approximating language maycorrespond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value.Moreover, unless specifically stated otherwise, a use of the terms“first,” “second,” etc., do not denote an order or importance, butrather the terms “first,” “second,” etc., are used to distinguish oneelement from another.

As used herein, the terms “may” and “may be” indicate a possibility ofan occurrence within a set of circumstances; a possession of a specifiedproperty, characteristic or function; and/or qualify another verb byexpressing one or more of an ability, capability, or possibilityassociated with the qualified verb. Accordingly, usage of “may” and “maybe” indicates that a modified term is apparently appropriate, capable,or suitable for an indicated capacity, function, or usage, while takinginto account that in some circumstances the modified term may sometimesnot be appropriate, capable, or suitable. For example, in somecircumstances an event or capacity can be expected, while in othercircumstances the event or capacity cannot occur—this distinction iscaptured by the terms “may” and “may be.”

This written description uses examples to disclose the subject matter,including the best mode, and also to enable one of ordinary skill in theart to practice the invention, including making and using a devices orsystems and performing incorporated methods. The patentable scope of theinvention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples thatoccur to one of ordinary skill in the art. Such other examples areintended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structuralelements that do not differentiate from the literal language of theclaims, or if they include equivalent structural elements withinsubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system for a vehicle, comprising: one or morebracket assemblies that is configured to support a container within ahousing, the bracket assembly includes a coupling member that couples toa chassis of a vehicle and a curved member that supports a portion ofthe housing, wherein the container is configured to house a fuel for thevehicle; and the housing is supported and secured by a portion of thebracket assembly and the housing configured to encase the container, afirst neck mount and a second neck mount that couple to a first end ofthe container and the second end of the container respectively, a firstinner plate, a second inner plate, and a truss assembly.
 2. The systemof claim 1, the first inner plate is secured to at least one of aportion of an inside wall of the housing or through the inside wall ofthe housing.
 3. The system of claim 1, the second inner plate is securedto at least one of a portion of an inside wall of the housing or throughthe inside wall of the housing.
 4. The system of claim 1, the curvedmember of the bracket assembly is positioned above the chassis.
 5. Thesystem of claim 1, the curved member of the bracket assembly ispositioned below the chassis.
 6. The system of claim 1, furthercomprising one or more straps that secure the housing to a portion ofthe bracket assembly.
 7. The system of claim 6, the one or more strapseach include a thickness, a first end and a second end opposite thefirst, wherein the strap is positioned around a portion of acircumference of the housing.
 8. The system of claim 7, wherein thefirst end is coupled to the coupling member and the second end iscoupled to the curved member.
 9. The system of claim 1, wherein the fuelis at least one of a compressed gas or a renewable fuel source.
 10. Asystem for a vehicle, comprising: a housing having a first end and asecond end opposite the first end and a thickness, the housing having alength between the first end and the second end creating a wall of thehousing, the housing is configured to encase a container that stores amaterial to fuel an engine of the vehicle; the container having a firstend and a second end opposite thereto, wherein the first end and thesecond end are secured to at least one of an inside of the wall of thehousing or through the inside wall of the housing; the housing isconfigured to be removeabley coupled to a frame of a vehicle such thatthe length of the housing is at least one of behind a cab of the vehicleor below a cab of the vehicle.
 11. The system of claim 10, furthercomprising a truss assembly that is coupled to between at least one ofthe first end of the container or the second end of the container. 12.The system of claim 10, wherein the material is a compressed natural gasor a compressed gas.
 13. The system of claim 10, wherein the material isa compressed hydrogen.
 14. The system of claim 10, further comprising abracket assembly that couples to the frame of the vehicle and supports aportion of the housing.
 15. The system of claim 13, further comprising astrap that is configured to couple to a portion of the bracket assembly,a portion of the strap is positioned around a circumference of thehousing perpendicular to the length of the housing.
 16. The system ofclaim 14, the bracket assembly includes a coupling member that couplesto the frame and a curved member that supports the portion of thehousing.
 17. The system of claim 10, the first end or the second end ofthe container includes a neck and one or more valves, wherein the one ormore valves are configured to at least one of receive the material ordeliver the material to a vehicle via a tubing.
 18. A system,comprising: a housing having a first end and a second end opposite thefirst end and a thickness, the housing having a length between the firstend and the second end creating a wall of the housing, the housingencases a container that stores a portion of a fuel; the housingconfigured to provide protection and enclose the container, a first neckmount and a second neck mount that secure the container, and a trussassembly; and one or more bracket assemblies, wherein each bracketassembly includes a coupling member that couples to a chassis of avehicle and a curved member that is coupled or supports exterior portionof the housing.
 19. The support system of claim 18, the one or morebracket assemblies include: a first bracket assembly positionedproximate to the first end of the housing; a second bracket assemblypositioned proximate to the second end of the housing; and a thirdbracket assembly positioned at a location between the first bracketassembly and the second bracket assembly.
 20. The support system ofclaim 18, the one or more bracket assemblies are positioned between asteer axle and a drive axle of the vehicle.